Key aspects of his life and work:
* Poetry: Baudelaire is best known for his groundbreaking collection of poetry, "Les Fleurs du Mal" (The Flowers of Evil), published in 1857. This work explores themes of urban life, sin, beauty, and the human condition with unflinching honesty and a unique blend of beauty and ugliness. It was controversial at the time for its depictions of vice and sexuality.
* Modernity: Baudelaire was a pioneer in capturing the essence of modern life and the anxieties of the industrial age. He saw beauty in the unexpected and the grotesque, rejecting traditional Romantic ideals.
* Symbolism: His poetry is characterized by its use of symbols, evocative language, and exploration of the darker side of human nature. His work influenced later generations of poets, including the Symbolists.
* Art Criticism: Baudelaire was also an influential art critic, championing the work of artists like Gustave Courbet and Édouard Manet, who challenged traditional academic art.
* Translations: He translated works by Edgar Allan Poe, whose dark and macabre themes resonated with his own aesthetic sensibility.
Impact:
Baudelaire's work continues to be celebrated and studied today for its groundbreaking explorations of modern life, beauty, and human nature. His influence can be seen in the works of many subsequent writers and artists, and he remains a key figure in the history of literature and art.